Hey Limey, glad to have you aboard. No the shifting problem isn't all that common, but it's not unheard of either. Which r3 did you get? Must have been a red one to have problems right off the bat like that. Mines had the output shaft bearing problem and Triumph fixed it. The only other problem I've had was a coil wire came loose internally and made it miss for awhile. Overall I really enjoy my bike, and I'd buy another one in a heartbeat if I could afford it. You got a great bike there, and once you have it back and knock the "new" off it, I'm sure you'll enjoy it.. congrats, and welcome aboard..